There is no central authority overseeing the operation of internal whistleblowing channels across Cyprus’ public sector, while the justice ministry does not collect data on complaints of retaliation against whistleblowers, Justice Minister Costas Fitiris has confirmed.
In a written response to a question by Limassol MP Michalis Paraskevas, Fitiris outlined the safeguards available to whistleblowers under existing legislation, including protection of their identity, the right to seek compensation and the possibility of reinstatement in cases of dismissal.
According to the minister, the operation of internal reporting channels is considered an internal matter for each ministry, service or department, with no central body responsible for monitoring their implementation.
He clarified that neither the relevant EU directive nor national legislation requires the establishment of such an oversight body.
The justice ministry said it had sent letters to the competent authorities informing them of their obligations and had published a list on its website identifying the authorities to which citizens can submit reports.
However, the ministry does not collect information on complaints of retaliation against whistleblowers, as such data is not required to be submitted to the European Commission under either the EU directive or national legislation.
Fitiris said the legislation guarantees the confidentiality of whistleblowers’ identities, as well as those of individuals named in...
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